Is Fish Oil Good for Teens?

by Erin Coleman, R.D., L.D.

Omega-3s are essential for proper childhood development.

Although you should always check with your pediatrician before offering your child any type of dietary supplement, omega-3s in purified fish oil may be beneficial for teens. Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, are two omega-3 fatty acids abundant in fish oil, and key components of normal childhood development. However, only use purified fish oil in recommended doses to avoid potential complications.

Omega-3 Requirements

Omega-3s are present in a variety of foods, but DHA and EPA are most abundant in fish and fish oil supplements. The American Pregnancy Association suggests that children and teens younger than age 15 need 15 milligrams per pound of body weight of combined doses of DHA plus EPA, and teens ages 15 and older need 500 milligrams of combined DHA plus EPA daily.

Effects on Behavior

Children and teens who take purified fish oil supplements may behave better than those who don’t get enough omega-3s in their diet. According to a study published in a 2007 edition of “Biological Psychiatry,” supplementation with DHA and EPA in kids with autistic disorders who exhibited tantrums and aggression helped improve these behaviors; researchers in this study concluded that omega-3 fatty acids may help treat kids with autism disorders. MedlinePlus reports that taking fish oil supplements may improve behavior in kids with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.

Effects on Cognition

The omega-3s in fish oil may positively affect your teen’s cognitive development. According to a 2007 review published in “Alternative Medicine Review: A Journal of Clinical Therapeutics,” DHA is essential for normal brain development, and cognitive impairment is correlated with lower tissue levels of DHA and EPA. The authors of this review conclude that omega-3 supplementation may improve brain function in children with cognitive impairments.

Concerns

Although most fish oil supplements go through a purification process, and supplements facts labels report they are free from harmful contaminants, some fish oil supplements may still contain detectable amounts of these toxins. Researchers who conducted a study published in a 2013 edition of “Food Additives and Contaminants” tested 13 over-the-counter children’s fish oil supplements and all contained at least some polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs -- a contaminant that can negatively impact your child’s development. Discuss with your doctor the potential risks and benefits of offering fish oil to your teen, and always abide by dosage recommendations.

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About the Author

Erin Coleman is a registered and licensed dietitian. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in dietetics and has extensive experience working as a health writer and health educator. Her articles are published on various health, nutrition and fitness websites.

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